What Makes Pine Island, Florida a Great Choice?

Although Pine Island is only 15 minutes from Cape Coral and 30 minutes from Fort Myers, its tropical island atmosphere is a world apart! Friendly neighbors, a mild climate year-round, no traffic lights or billboards, a low crime rate and protection from over-development with no building higher than the tallest tree give Pine Island's communities a small town feel. Yet good hospitals, schools, churches, airport services, restaurants and great shopping are just minutes away. Surrounded by three aquatic preserves, Pine Island is home to many species of wildlife including manatees, sea otters, bald eagles, osprey, heron, roseate spoonbills and egrets, to name a few. Extensive palm groves, exotic tropical fruit trees like mango and papaya and colorful flowering plants enhance the tropical island ambiance.

Pine Island's easy, affordable access to Boca Grande Pass and the Gulf of Mexico offers some of the best fishing and boating in the world. Tarpon, snook, redfish, grouper, snapper and many other varieties help make this a fisherman's paradise. The waters of Matlacha Pass and the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve are also delightful to explore by kayak or canoe. Non-paddlers can take a cruise or water taxi to the outer islands of Cayo Costa, North Captiva or Cabbage Key to picnic on the beach or dine in one of the casual waterfront restaurants specializing in fresh seafood, served up island-style.

Photo courtesy of Flats Captain Charters, Pine Island, Boca Grand, Charlotte Harbor

Pine Island's 6,000 permanent residents include many well-known authors, artists and musicians, providing an atmosphere rich in culture and festivities. The colorful art galleries of Matlacha offer an unique collection of local paintings, pottery and native crafts not found anywhere else in the U.S. Each July Pine Island holds its largest celebration of the year, Mangomania, featuring tropical fruits, exotic plants and native goods as well as an array of artistic talent. Pine Island also hosts more than 50 clubs and organizations, so whether your interest is gardening, boating, crafting, ecology or helping the Pine Island branch of a national service organization, friendly Pine Islanders will be ready to welcome you.

"Where to Retire" magazine (Sept/Oct 2008) selected Pine Island, Florida as a top choice for retirement and called it "a relaxed escape from urban life, yet offering a sense of community and activities for involvment." The casual lifestyle, sub-tropical setting and fun-loving spirit of Pine Island make it a popular destination for sports fishermen, boaters, retirees, nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy a slice of old-style Florida.